The University of South Florida (USF) has achieved a remarkable milestone, reaching its highest-ever position in the annual U.S. News & World Report rankings of top colleges. In the newly released rankings, USF has ascended to No. 88 overall among both public and private universities across the United States, up from No. 91 the previous year. Among public universities specifically, USF now proudly stands at No. 43, an improvement of two positions from last year, marking its seventh consecutive year within the top 50.
Over the past decade, USF has experienced a significant rise in these rankings. The university has jumped 40 places among public universities, moving from No. 83 to No. 43, and it has climbed 71 spots among all universities, advancing from No. 159 to No. 88.
USF President Rhea Law emphasized the significance of these rankings, stating, “The latest rankings from U.S. News & World Report are yet another indication of the University of South Florida’s growing reputation for academic quality and groundbreaking research, and for making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students, the Tampa Bay region and the state of Florida.” She highlighted the university’s strong upward trajectory over the past decade, attributing it to the collective commitment to excellence that defines USF. She reaffirmed the university’s dedication to shaping future leaders, fostering economic growth, and addressing societal challenges.
USF’s value is also recognized in the rankings, where it is ranked as the No. 12 “best value” among all public universities nationwide. This value-driven approach has attracted a record number of applications from first-time college students for 2025. The incoming class this fall boasts the highest average SAT score and ties for the highest average GPA in the university’s history. USF provides an opportunity to earn a degree from a highly regarded institution, part of the prestigious Association of American Universities, at nearly half the national average cost for in-state students attending public universities.
In the U.S. News rankings for public universities, USF is also acknowledged for its social mobility efforts, ranking No. 17, and innovation, ranking No. 19. Additionally, it is placed No. 42 among the best colleges for veterans.
These rankings are based on a comprehensive methodology that aligns with USF’s mission and strategic goals, considering factors such as student graduation and retention rates, graduate earnings, research activity, faculty excellence, and academic reputation.
Furthermore, in April, U.S. News acclaimed 31 USF graduate programs as being among the top 100 in the nation, with 15 programs in the top 50 and five in the top 25. Notably, the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine was recognized as the top-ranked medical school in Florida and placed in the highest echelon of medical schools nationwide. This series of achievements underscores USF’s commitment to academic excellence and its role as a leading educational institution.